Research Associate / Senior Research Associate in Social Sciences

Research Associate / Senior Research Associate in Social Sciences

Job no: 527736

Work type: full time

Location: Sydney, NSW

Categories: Post Doctoral Research Associate

The Opportunity

The School of Photovoltaic and Renewable Energy Engineering (SPREE) has an opportunity for a Research Associate / Senior Research Associate to work as part of the Collaboration on Energy and Environmental Markets (CEEM). CEEM is a multidisciplinary team of academics and researchers who collaborate closely with industry partners and with other researchers across UNSW faculties to understand the challenges and opportunities of the clean energy transition. More information is available at our website.

As a social science researcher, you will contribute to two significant interdisciplinary projects. One project investigates household attitudes to and experiences of the automation and control of electrical appliances and consumer energy resources (CER). The other project examines various stakeholder perspectives on community batteries, microgrids, local energy trading, and other smart energy innovations in fringe-of-grid communities. This position could also give you the opportunity to contribute to additional related research projects and be encouraged to pursue opportunities to develop your academic career including through new research proposals.

If successful you will be required to undertake several 1–2-week periods of fieldwork in remote NSW.

This role will report to Dr Mike Roberts and may assist with the supervision of research students and casual research assistants.

Job Details

Salary

• Research Associate (Level A) - $110,059 to $117,718 per annum + 17% superannuation
• Senior Research Associate (Level B) - $123,620 to $145,730 per annum + 17% superannuation

Full time

Fixed-term – Until January 2027 (with likely extension to October 2027)

ASAP start – Aiming to conduct interviews the week commencing 28 Oct

Location: Kensington – Sydney, Australia

The Organisation

UNSW isn’t like other places you’ve worked. Yes, we’re a large organisation with a diverse and talented community; a community doing extraordinary things. But what makes us different isn’t only what we do, it’s how we do it. Together, we are driven to be thoughtful, practical, and purposeful in all we do. If you want a career where you can thrive, be challenged and do meaningful work, you’re in the right place.

The School of Photovoltaic and Renewable Energy Engineering (SPREE) is internationally recognised for its record-breaking research in solar power (photovoltaics) and renewable energy. The PERC solar cell was first invented at UNSW in our labs in 1983 and today powers more than 85% of all new solar panel modules all over the world. SPREE’s work and people have changed the face of sustainable energy on the global stage, and we continue to be at the forefront of leading-edge research and development in the field of renewable technology as our economies transition away from fossil fuels.

Skills & Experience

Level A

• A PhD in a social science discipline (e.g., sociology, anthropology, human geography or related areas), and/or relevant work experience.
• Experience conducting social research with diverse household, professional, industry and community stakeholders.
• Proven commitment to proactively keeping up to date with discipline knowledge and developments.
• Demonstrated ability to undertake high quality academic research and conduct independent research with limited supervision.
• Demonstrated track record of publications and conference presentations relative to opportunity.
• Demonstrated ability to work in a team, collaborate across disciplines and build effective relationships.
• Evidence of highly developed interpersonal and organisational skills.
• Demonstrated ability to communicate and interact with a diverse range of stakeholders and students.
• An understanding of and commitment to UNSW’s aims, objectives and values in action, together with relevant policies and guidelines.
• Knowledge of health and safety responsibilities and commitment to attending relevant health and safety training.
• (Desirable) Experience with research that examines the interplay between social and technological systems.
• (Desirable) Experience with and/or knowledge of the Australian energy system, in particular electricity users, networks, electricity market institutions and distributed energy businesses.
• (Desirable) Experience of policy and regulatory analysis and/or knowledge of the Australian energy regulatory context.
• (Desirable) Full driving licence.

Level B (in addition to the above)

• Demonstrated track record in research with outcomes of high quality and high impact with clear evidence of the desire and ability to continually achieve research excellence as well as the capacity for research leadership.
• High level communication and organisational skills and demonstrated ability to manage projects with multiple partners and diverse stakeholders.

Additional details about the specific responsibilities for this position can be found in the position description. This is available via JOBS@UNSW.

To Apply:

Please click the apply now button and submit your CV, Cover Letter and responses to the Skills and Experience. You should systematically address the Skills and Experience listed within the position description in your application.

Please note applications will not be accepted if sent to the contact listed below.

Contact:

Eugene Aves – Talent Acquisition Consultant

E: eugene.aves@unsw.edu.au

Applications close: 11:55 pm (Sydney time) on Thursday 24th October 2024

UNSW is committed to evolving a culture that embraces equity and supports a diverse and inclusive community where everyone can participate fairly, in a safe and respectful environment. We welcome candidates from all backgrounds and encourage applications from people of diverse gender, sexual orientation, cultural and linguistic backgrounds, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander background, people with disability and those with caring and family responsibilities. UNSW provides workplace adjustments for people with disability, and access to flexible work options for eligible staff. The University reserves the right not to proceed with any appointment.

Position Description

Advertised: 18 Oct 2024 AUS Eastern Daylight Time

Applications close: 24 Oct 2024 AUS Eastern Daylight Time